What flute is used in Irish music?

An Irish flute is a simple-system flute made of wood (typically African blackwood, cocus, rosewood, boxwood, and ebony). These conical-bore flutes were originally used by concert musicians before the adoption of the Boehm system flutes in the middle of the 19th century.

What is an Irish flute called?

The simple system flutes such as those made by Martin Doyle are commonly known as ‘Irish flutes’. The term simple system flute refers to the conical-bore flutes that were in use before Theobald Boehm introduced his cylindrical bore flute designs in the mid-nineteenth century.

How is Irish flute different?

Conical vs Cylindrical Classical flutes usually have cylindrical bores, while Irish flutes have conical shaped bores. The difference affects both the tone and the resistance of the flute.

Is the Irish flute the same as tin whistle?

Another type of flute that is very similarly played to the tin whistle except is played transversely is called the Irish Flute. The Irish flute is played transversely and thus requires that special embouchure, but the fingerings and style of playing is very similar, although the sound is darker than the tin whistle.

How many notes are on a Irish flute?

So the “D” irish flute is extremely similar to a “C” orchestral flute (Boehm flute) and plays a D when all six notes are covered. So-called “low flutes” are larger and pitched 1-3 notes lower, i.e. in C, Bb, or A. An Eb flute is slightly smaller.

How hard is it to play the Irish flute?

So, is Irish flute hard to learn? Yes! The embouchure might be the hardest thing to master on the Irish flute, making this instrument disappointing one day and very rewarding the next day. So if you’re just a beginner on the Irish flute, hang in there, you’re in for some serious work… and some serious fun!

What are the notes on an Irish flute?

So-called “low flutes” are larger and pitched 1-3 notes lower, i.e. in C, Bb, or A. An Eb flute is slightly smaller. The standard fife is pitched about an octave higher than the standard Irish flute. The usual keys are Bb, C, D, with occasional instruments in Eb.

How do I choose an Irish flute?

When starting out you want an Irish flute that is:

  1. Lightweight and easy to play.
  2. Has a smaller embouchure.
  3. Doesn’t have overly large tone holes or require too much of a stretch.

What is the difference between a flute and a fife?

The fife, most accurately described, is any cylindrically bored transverse flute, usually in one piece (but sometimes two), usually somewhat longer than the piccolo and having only six fingerholes with no keys.

Is playing flute good for health?

Among many health benefits, it notably promotes good posture, proper and healthy breathing, core strengthand control, and finger dexterity. Flute requires a high degree of patience and discipline, which happen to be necessary attributes for academic excellence and good work ethic.

Who is a famous Irish flute player?

Matt Molloy
Matt Molloy is one of Ireland’s best known and highest regarded flute players. Born in Co. Roscommon, Molloy gained recognition as a member of the Bothy Band in the 1970s before replacing Michael Tubridy in the Chieftains in 1979. Molloy’s highly oramented style has influenced many modern flute players.